Hearty Tomato-Beef Soup
A comforting and hearty tomato-beef soup with savory flavors, perfect for chilly days and satisfying lunch or dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground beef, onion, and celery in melted butter until meat is well browned.
- Stir in canned or fresh tomatoes, beef bouillon cubes, rice, salt, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and sausage. You can substitute white rice with brown rice for added nutrition, but be aware it may require longer cooking time. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the taste. If you prefer a heartier texture, add diced carrots or potatoes. For a spicy kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hearty Tomato-Beef Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Thelms'S Perking Roast Beef for a comforting dinner. You can also top it with grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Enjoy with a glass of your favorite red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For a thicker consistency, add a little extra rice or simmer uncovered for a few minutes while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Tomato-Beef Soup contains roughly 1156 calories, with 34g protein, 216g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (165% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (155% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be mindful that the flavor will be slightly different. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute in place of the beef.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili powder during cooking. Adjust the amount to your heat preference to really enhance the flavor.
What can I add to make this soup heartier?
For a more substantial soup, consider adding beans like kidney or black beans. You could also mix in some frozen peas or corn for added sweetness and texture. Another option is to double the amount of rice or add small pasta shapes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).